Responsible Gaming
Gaming Should Be Entertainment
Online pokies should be enjoyed as a form of entertainment only, not as a way to earn money or solve financial problems. The house always has a mathematical advantage. If you find yourself relying on gambling as income or using it to cope with stress, it may be time to seek support.
Age Verification
You must be at least 18 years of age (or the legal gambling age in your jurisdiction) to participate in online gaming. We take age verification seriously and comply with all New Zealand gaming regulations.
Parents and guardians: If you're concerned about a young person's gaming habits, please reach out to support services listed below.
Warning Signs of Problem Gambling
Recognizing these signs in yourself or others can help prevent problem gambling from escalating:
- Chasing losses by gambling more to win back money you've lost
- Hiding gambling activities or lying about the time and money spent
- Experiencing irritability or anxiety when unable to gamble
- Neglecting work, study, family, or social commitments due to gaming
- Gambling with money needed for essential expenses (rent, bills, food)
- Borrowing money or going into debt to fund gambling
- Failed attempts to cut back or control gambling
- Using gambling to escape problems, stress, or negative emotions
- Feeling a constant urge to gamble with increasing amounts
- Experiencing mood swings or depression related to gaming
If you recognize any of these signs, please reach out to a support service immediately.
Self-Help Tools Available
Most responsible gaming platforms offer tools to help you stay in control:
- Deposit Limits: Set a maximum amount you can deposit within a specific period (daily, weekly, or monthly)
- Loss Limits: Restrict the maximum amount you're willing to lose during a gaming session
- Reality Checks: Receive reminders during your gaming session about how long you've been playing
- Session Time Limits: Set automatic logouts after a predetermined time period
- Self-Exclusion: Temporarily or permanently exclude yourself from gaming accounts and platforms
- Account Cooling-Off Period: Take a break from gambling for a set period (days, weeks, or months)
Make use of these tools proactively. They're designed to support your wellbeing.
Support Organizations in New Zealand & Beyond
If you or someone you know is struggling with problem gambling, help is available:
New Zealand
- Problem Gambling Foundation (Aotearoa) – Free counselling and support services
Website: www.pgf.nz
Phone: 0800 664 262 (24/7 helpline) - Gambling Helpline (Problem Gambling Foundation)
Phone: 0800 664 262
Email: [email protected]
International Support Services
- Gamblers Anonymous – Peer support meetings worldwide
Website: www.gamblersanonymous.org - GamCare (UK) – Counselling and information
Website: www.gamcare.org.uk - GamStop (UK) – National self-exclusion scheme
Website: www.gamstop.co.uk - Gambling Help Online (Australia)
Website: www.gamblinghelponline.org.au - Responsible Gambling Council (Canada)
Website: www.responsiblegambling.org - National Council on Problem Gambling (USA)
Website: www.ncpgambling.org
Helpline: 1-800-522-4700
Take Action Today
If you're concerned about your gambling habits or those of someone close to you, please don't hesitate to seek help. Support is confidential, non-judgmental, and available 24/7.
Contact the Problem Gambling Foundation on 0800 664 262 now.
Recovery is possible, and there are people ready to help you.